The clutch of the Kenworth T 600 is the main component that allows the transmission gears to shift. Once the clutch pedal is depressed, it allows the clutch disc to disengage the flywheel. Once the flywheel stops moving, the transmission gears can shift. After the transmission gears shift, releasing the clutch pedal allows the flywheel to move again. Over time, excessive clutch use wears the pads on the disc. Adjust it continuously to prevent burnout.
Park the Kenworth T 600 on a level surface and apply the air brakes. Shut off the engine.
Get out of the truck and press the clutch pedal all the way to the floor. Place one end of the wood block against the front of the clutch pedal and the other end of the wood block against the base of the driver’s seat. This compresses the clutch pedal so you can adjust it.
Slide under the driver’s side of the Kenworth T600 near the driver’s side door. Locate the access hole at the bottom of the hood. The bell housing is between the transmission and the rear of the engine. The clutch adjustment bolt is inside the access hole. Shine the flashlight through the access hole and locate the clutch disc adjustment bolt. The bolt must be in the 6 o’clock position before the clutch can be adjusted.
Locate the flywheel access hole in front of the clutch bolt adjustment hole. Slide the end of the flathead screwdriver into the access hole and turn the flywheel with the screwdriver while watching the clutch adjusting bolt. Once the bolt reaches the 6 o’clock position, stop turning the flywheel.
Note the size of the clutch adjustment bolt. A 9/16 inch (9 mm) socket or a 5/8 inch (15 mm) socket will be required. Place the socket in the ratchet and insert it into the access hole. Place the socket on the adjusting pin. Press inward on the back of the ratchet to release the spring tension on the adjusting bolt.
Turn the adjusting bolt clockwise three full turns with the socket wrench to add free play in the clutch pedal. Slide back under the truck and remove the wooden block from the clutch pedal. Press inward on the clutch pedal with your hand. The clutch pedal should have no more or less than 2 inches of free play. Adjust the clutch adjustment bolt counterclockwise as necessary to reach the 2 inches of free play.
Tips
The clutch adjustment bolt on Kenworth T 600 models must be turned clockwise to increase free play in the clutch pedal and clutch linkage. Turning the adjustment bolt clockwise eliminates free play in the clutch pedal and clutch linkage.
The clutch pedal must be pressed down with a block of wood or a helper before the bolt can be turned.
The adjusting bolt will not turn until the ratchet is pushed against the bolt with enough force to remove spring tension from the bolt. Once the tension is off the bolt, you will be able to turn the bolt with the socket wrench and socket.
Warnings
Make sure the air brakes are on to prevent the truck from moving while you are underneath.